Paul Gascoigne’s condition improves after entering intensive care

Paul Gascoigne’s former Tottenham team-mate Gary Mabbutt says the ex-England icon has shown signs of improvement after suffering a bad reaction to a detox treatment at a clinic in the United States.

The 45-year-old has been receiving treatment in Arizona for his battle against alcohol addiction where he was taken into intensive care.

But former Spurs skipper Mabbutt said the latest indications were that Gazza was recovering and would soon be well enough to return to the clinic.

‘Unfortunately over the last few weeks Paul has had a relapse, which culminated finally, last Monday, in Paul asking for help,’ Mabbutt told Sky Sports News.

‘By Monday afternoon he was on a plane out to Arizona to a clinic specialising in dealing with Paul’s specific problems.

‘The first thing he underwent was a detox, unfortunately Paul had a very bad reaction to the detox and the clinic decided that as a precaution it was best to transfer him to hospital.

‘He was transferred to hospital in intensive care where they could monitor him 24-7. But I spoke to Paul’s medical team in the UK this morning, they had spoken to Paul and he’s recovering and hopefully soon he will be back into the clinic to continue his rehab.

‘Over the years he has had a lot of support from the football family, but of course it could be a long road to recovery. Now Paul’s asked for the help we can focus on getting through this.’

Gascoigne’s former England and Spurs team-mate Gary Lineker tweeted: ‘Gazza is struggling, Let’s hope he can hang on in there. Others have generously offered help. #GetwellGazza.’

Legendary status: Gascoigne enjoys legendary status (Picture: PA)

England striker Wayne Rooney, who looked up to Gascoigne in his youth, said: ‘It’s a shame what’s happening to Gazza. He was a hero of mine growing up. I’m sure everyone, every England fan and every Paul Gascoigne fan wishes him the best of luck. It’s a sad time for him just now and I wish him all the best.’

Fans of Tottenham and another of Gazza’s former clubs, Newcastle also voiced their support by chanting his name in Saturday’s Premier League game at White Hart Lane.